**Core Concept**
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of genetic disorders affecting the retina's ability to respond to light, leading to progressive vision loss. The condition is primarily inherited in an autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or X-linked pattern, with the majority of cases being autosomal dominant.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Autosomal dominant RP is caused by mutations in genes such as rhodopsin (RHO), peripherin/rds (RDS), and others that are expressed in the retina. These mutations lead to the degeneration of photoreceptor cells, resulting in the characteristic symptoms of RP, including night blindness, progressive vision loss, and eventual blindness. The autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance means that a single copy of the mutated gene is sufficient to cause the condition, and each child of an affected parent has a 50% chance of inheriting the mutated gene.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not a viable genetic inheritance pattern for RP.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect as RP does not typically follow an X-linked pattern of inheritance.
**Option C:** This option is not accurate as RP's inheritance pattern is not solely X-linked.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
RP is a leading cause of inherited blindness worldwide, and early diagnosis through genetic testing and fundoscopic examination can help identify affected individuals and their family members.

**Correct Answer:** D.